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German Shepherds need at least 4000 square feet of yard space, which allows them enough room to run and catch a ball. Although they are large-sized high-energy dogs, with lots of planning and hard work, they can still live in smaller homes or apartments as long as their daily needs are met.Yes, German Shepherds can live in apartments as long as the owner is responsible and provides the dog with the basic needs. Many German Shepherds all over the world thrive in apartments.They will live quite happily in a small to medium sized yard as long as they received the correct daily exercise. With its noble look and natural athletic build, the German Shepherd Dog almost demands respect.

Contents

Can a German Shepherd live in a small house?

Yes, German Shepherds can live in apartments as long as the owner is responsible and provides the dog with the basic needs. Many German Shepherds all over the world thrive in apartments.

Can you have a German Shepherd in a small backyard?

They will live quite happily in a small to medium sized yard as long as they received the correct daily exercise. With its noble look and natural athletic build, the German Shepherd Dog almost demands respect.

How far does a German Shepherd need to be walked?

That said, most German Shepherds will usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise per day. This can be spread out across the day and can include all sorts of high energy activity, like walking, running and playing.

Can German Shepherds be indoor dogs?

The German Shepherd is happiest living indoors with the family, but with access to a large, fenced yard, where they can burn off some of their natural energy. You can find dogs of almost any breed, including German Shepherds, from your local shelter or breed specific rescue.

Can you leave a German Shepherd alone for 8 hours?

German Shepherds should not be left alone for more than 8 hours a day. They are easily bored so if they are left alone for that long, they may start engaging in destructive or problematic behavior such as digging, chewing and barking.

Where should I keep my German Shepherd?

Try to keep him in an enclosed area when you’re out, such as a crate with water, toys, and soft flooring (such as a rug, pad, or blanket). Dogs are den animals, and even large dogs like German Shepherds feel safer in their own small space.

Why German Shepherds are not good family dogs?

German Shepherds are the very last breed that you should consider as a family dog. They can be vicious, disobedient, and too rough to have around your children.

Are German Shepherds good yard dogs?

If you’ve been fascinated by German Shepherds for a while, knowing if they are good guard dogs might get you off the fence. German Shepherds are good guard dogs as they were bred to protect and herd sheep, so it is their natural instinct to guard their family.

Can German Shepherd live in backyard?

German Shepherds can technically live outside with appropriate shelter and if the temperature is moderate. However, it is not recommended to keep a German Shepherd outside full time, as they are very attached to their human companions and need a lot of social interaction to prevent unwanted behaviors from developing.

Are German Shepherds high maintenance?

Although German Shepherds are fairly low maintenance in regards to haircuts, working off leash, and encouraging obedience, this breed can be high maintenance in terms of shedding, activity requirements, and separation anxiety.

Does German Shepherd bark a lot?

Honestly, yes. German Shepherds do tend to bark more than some of the other large dog breeds. Even with lots of training and socialization, it isn’t uncommon for them to be more vocal.

What to know before buying a German Shepherd?

So here are the 10 things you really need to know before adopting a German shepherd.

They are smart. …
They can have high-energy needs. …
They require mental stimulation. …
They’re cuddle bugs at home but aloof in public. …
German shepherds are natural guard dogs. …
They are excellent listeners.

What do I do with my German Shepherd while at work?

While it is not ideal to leave a GSD alone in the house for over 4 hours a day, a lot of owners find that their German Shepherds do just fine while they’re at work for at least 8 hours a day.
…

#1 Rotation of Toys.
#2 Play Soft Music.
#3 Turn on white noise.
#4 Install a dog camera.
#5 Hire a dog walker/sitter.
#6 Dog daycare.

Are male or female German Shepherds more affectionate?

Since females are naturally more maternal, they can also be more reactive than males. Males tend to be more possessive. Many German shepherd owners will also say that their males are more affectionate and goofy while their females are more reserved.

Is a German Shepherd a good apartment dog?

German shepherds have sensitive hearing, so loud neighbors could wind this breed up. Not only does this large, intelligent breed need more exercise and stimulation than apartment living can provide, its territorial nature can make it downright risky in apartment hallways and elevators.

Does German Shepherd bark a lot?

Honestly, yes. German Shepherds do tend to bark more than some of the other large dog breeds. Even with lots of training and socialization, it isn’t uncommon for them to be more vocal.

Is German Shepherd good for first time owners?

German Shepherds are good first dogs as they are easy to train, obedient, intelligent, friendly, affectionate, loyal, and good with kids. They make an excellent dog for first-time owners, whether families or single owners. However, they need a lot of exercise, shed a lot, and don’t like to be left alone.

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A GERMAN SHEPHERD NEED?

Exactly How Much Space Do German Shepherds Need? – World of Dogz

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Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for Exactly How Much Space Do German Shepherds Need? – World of Dogz Updating German Shepherds are one of the most loved dog breeds in the world. However, potential German Shepherd owners often wonder if they have enough space for this energetic dog. So, …
Table of Contents:

Are German Shepherds Good in Small Houses

How Much Physical Exercise Do German Shepherds Need

How Much Mental Stimulation Does a German Shepherd Need

How to Keep German Shepherds Stimulated That Live in Small Spaces

Do German Shepherds Need A Lot of Space

Create a Routine to Work in Any Sized Space

Crate Train Your German Shepherd

Other Considerations if You Live in a Small Home

Final Thoughts

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Exactly How Much Space Do German Shepherds Need?

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German Shepherds are one of the most loved dog breeds in the world. However, potential German Shepherd owners often wonder if they have enough space for this energetic dog. So, exactly how much space is needed for a German Shepherd?

German Shepherds need at least 4000 square feet of yard space, which allows them enough room to run and catch a ball. Although they are large-sized high-energy dogs, with lots of planning and hard work, they can still live in smaller homes or apartments as long as their daily needs are met.

If you are contemplating owning a German Shepherd and you live in a small space such as an apartment, this article will explore the daily needs of a German Shepherd in terms of their physical and mental exercise requirements.

We will also look at how to keep your German Shepherd stimulated if you live in a small space, advice on creating a routine, and crate training tips.

To learn exactly how much space German Shepherds need, read on!

Are German Shepherds Good in Small Houses?

If you do live in a small house or apartment it’s important to know that you could get a German Shepherd, however, this comes with a caveat!

German Shepherds can live in small houses or apartments. However, it will require a ton of hard work and dedication. If your dog is not exercised enough throughout the day, he will display behavior problems such as destructive chewing, excessive barking, or aggression.

Many new dog owners do not realize the amount of work, socialization, care, and training that a German Shepherd needs which sadly ends up with the dog having to be re-homed, and I for one, do not wish to see this happen.

In the United States, the smallest sized yard size is just over 4000 square feet, which is in the state of Nevada. Average yard sizes vary greatly state by state but even this smallest size yard is easily enough space for a German Shepherd, especially if you raise him to live outside.

By taking the average smallest size yard is a great way of concluding exactly how much space a German Shepherd needs. For example, 4000 square feet is an area sized 50ft x 80ft which is plenty of space for your dog to run and play.

But what if your German Shepherd is an inside dog? Most German Shepherds live inside their homes as they are a very affectionate breed and like to be with their family. So, how much space do inside dogs really need?

To answer this question we need to look at how much exercise and care German Shepherds need. You will be able to see exactly what will be required and if this fits your lifestyle before making your decision on this wonderful breed.

How Much Physical Exercise Do German Shepherds Need?

The noble German Shepherd was bred as a herding dog and typically assisted with watching sheep and other livestock. German Shepherds, therefore, need a lot of physical activity.

Without meeting their need for physical and mental stimulation, they grow bored, display destructive behavior such as chewing or digging and act out through barking or whining.

It is generally accepted that German Shepherds need at least two hours of physical activity every day, and that doesn’t mean just leash walking!

Check out this 2-minute video on how to keep a dog happy and healthy in an apartment or smaller space. Number one on the list is to make sure your dog gets lots of exercise:

How to Keep a Dog Happy & Healthy in an Apartment or Smaller Space

Watch this video on YouTube

Physical Activity Recommendations

Jogging and walking. The first and most well-known exercise for dogs are daily walks and jogs. German Shepherds are intelligent, strong, and athletic. Just going places together is a great way to bond with your dog.

The first and most well-known exercise for dogs are daily walks and jogs. German Shepherds are intelligent, strong, and athletic. Just going places together is a great way to bond with your dog. Hiking. More strenuous than walking and with newer scents that aren’t on their daily route, hiking will offer plenty of physical activity for your German Shepherd. Hikes typically take more planning and are not always suitable for a quick afternoon or daily jaunt.

More strenuous than walking and with newer scents that aren’t on their daily route, hiking will offer plenty of physical activity for your German Shepherd. Hikes typically take more planning and are not always suitable for a quick afternoon or daily jaunt. Dog park. Consider taking your German Shepherd to a dog park! Some parks may require a muzzle or harness for larger breeds, but depending on your dog’s training and socialization, it may be worth considering wearing one anyway.

Consider taking your German Shepherd to a dog park! Some parks may require a muzzle or harness for larger breeds, but depending on your dog’s training and socialization, it may be worth considering wearing one anyway. Classic fetch. Playing fetch in your yard or at the park will stimulate your dog’s mind and work his muscles. It’s always fun to play fetch will an intelligent and agile German Shepherd.

Playing fetch in your yard or at the park will stimulate your dog’s mind and work his muscles. It’s always fun to play fetch will an intelligent and agile German Shepherd. ‘ Dogstacle’ course. If you have even a small yard, you could consider setting up an obstacle course for your German Shepherd out of boxes, boards, and household items. Walk your dog through on a leash and turn it into a training tool. Here are some ideas on how to make a DIY dog obstacle course.

If you have even a small yard, you could consider setting up an obstacle course for your German Shepherd out of boxes, boards, and household items. Walk your dog through on a leash and turn it into a training tool. Here are some ideas on how to make a DIY dog obstacle course. Dog-friendly events. Hit your community news or forums for dog-friendly events to take your German Shepherd to meet other dogs, which is great for socialization. Outdoor games, 5k runs, and even lake events often are organized for dogs and owners.

Hit your community news or forums for dog-friendly events to take your German Shepherd to meet other dogs, which is great for socialization. Outdoor games, 5k runs, and even lake events often are organized for dogs and owners. Barn hunt. Barn hunts are organized specialty activities where your German Shepherd can run through activities in a barn. They are typically searching for something, like pet rats protected in tubes, and it’s a great sport for working their mind and body. (More on barn hunts later in the article)!

Other Physical Considerations

Since some German Shepherds are prone to having hip and joint issues, such as hip dysplasia, it’s important to consider their health before setting up a physical activity plan. Although not all German Shepherds have bad hips, there may be adjustments needed for your dog’s age and skeletal condition.

Puppies should not be strenuously exercised, even though they are full of energy! They should also avoid stairs until they are at least 3 months old and you should help your German Shepherd puppy get in and out of vehicles.

Their skeletal system is still developing, and as they are prone to hip and joint issues, you want to protect them while they grow to avoid long, painful conditions in the future. Puppies need short bursts of exercise rather than long, hard play.

Another consideration is that if you are feeding your puppy a diet of dry kibble, it’s important to choose a brand suitable for large breed dogs. This ensures that the food contains balanced nutrition specifically designed for large breeds, such as more protein and less calcium and phosphorous.

This controls their growth rate ensuring they don’t grow too quickly. You can find out loads more about this in my article, Do German Shepherds Need Large Breed Food?

Older German Shepherds, too, may have already developed hip dysplasia or other conditions that can limit their physical activity levels. Gentle walks with your senior German Shepherd should suffice but follow their cues if they show signs of pain or weakness.

How Much Mental Stimulation Does a German Shepherd Need?

German Shepherds need daily mental stimulation. They are very bright and inquisitive and proper mental stimulation is as important to their overall well-being as physical exercise. If this is lacking boredom sets in and your GSD will resort to poor behavior such as barking, whining, digging, biting, or chewing.

Luckily for dog owners, there are endless possibilities to keep them entertained. Starting when they are young, you should take your German Shepherd to a training school. This also helps with socialization and boredom. GSDs will excel in all of the types of classes available, from agility to obedience.

Toys will be your next benefit, and there are specialty toys for larger dogs that you can buy. Some ideas are puzzle toys, interactive toys, or treat-dispensing toys.

There are even automatic ball launchers which are great if your dog loves to play fetch, and these also keep him guessing when you will launch the ball. I like the iFetch Interactive Ball Launcher from Amazon, and this model is great for large breeds. You can also use it indoors and limit the launch to just 10 feet. It’s also rechargeable.

Additionally, healthy long-lasting dog chews are a good choice. Make sure they are made for large breeds, as you don’t want your German Shepherd to damage their throat or even worse, choke. If you like to give your dog a bone make sure you check out my article, Can German Shepherds Eat Bones? Here’s What People Get Wrong!

Consistent and thoughtful mental activities for your German Shepherd will keep them happy and fulfilled in any sized home, from a yard-less apartment to a large farm. Apartment life requires other considerations, however, that we’ll get into later in the article.

How Do You Mentally Stimulate a German Shepherd?

There are many ways to mentally stimulate a German Shepherd from obedience classes, learning new tricks, agility, obstacle courses, fetch, tug-of-war, hide ‘n’ seek, dog sports, puzzle or interactive toys, automatic ball launchers, chew toys, long-lasting healthy chew treats, and bones.

Below are some examples of these:

Learn a new trick. German Shepherds love to learn, so why not put that knowledge to use? These dogs are very capable of learning all the tricks.

German Shepherds love to learn, so why not put that knowledge to use? These dogs are very capable of learning all the tricks. Learn the names of their toys. This is a fun activity that German Shepherds can master. Name each toy, and slowly teach them each name, one at a time. You can hide a toy once you’ve said it several times and then ask them to find it. Make sure to reward them when they bring it back.

This is a fun activity that German Shepherds can master. Name each toy, and slowly teach them each name, one at a time. You can hide a toy once you’ve said it several times and then ask them to find it. Make sure to reward them when they bring it back. Work for meals. There are plenty of ways to add training and fun to the small moments every day, such as mealtimes or providing treats. There are fillable wobble balls that need to be rolled around to dispense food, such as the KONG Wobbler, or you could get your German Shepherd to go through his tricks before putting out their dinner.

There are plenty of ways to add training and fun to the small moments every day, such as mealtimes or providing treats. There are fillable wobble balls that need to be rolled around to dispense food, such as the KONG Wobbler, or you could get your German Shepherd to go through his tricks before putting out their dinner. Puzzle toys. Puzzle toys allow your dog to use and develop problem-solving skills. There are frozen, flat, round, treat dispensing, and snuffling toys. Not all dogs will love all of the toys, so you may have a trial and error phase before finding the perfect one for your German Shepherd.

Puzzle toys allow your dog to use and develop problem-solving skills. There are frozen, flat, round, treat dispensing, and snuffling toys. Not all dogs will love all of the toys, so you may have a trial and error phase before finding the perfect one for your German Shepherd. School. School is good for humans, and it is also good for your German Shepherd! Types of classes include puppy and adult obedience, agility, good canine citizen, and protection training. Protection training will require a German Shepherd owner to have dedication and consistency and is a serious commitment.

School is good for humans, and it is also good for your German Shepherd! Types of classes include puppy and adult obedience, agility, good canine citizen, and protection training. Protection training will require a German Shepherd owner to have dedication and consistency and is a serious commitment. Service training. German Shepherds naturally want to be a part of your everyday life and live by your side. A good way to do that is to have them service trained, such as a guide or a hearing dog. This is obviously very specialized training, and there are some private trainers or agencies that offer this.

German Shepherds naturally want to be a part of your everyday life and live by your side. A good way to do that is to have them service trained, such as a guide or a hearing dog. This is obviously very specialized training, and there are some private trainers or agencies that offer this. Therapy training. If you are dedicated to your German Shepherd training, consider getting them therapy certified. Again, this is quite specialized, but it offers many perks, as far as taking your dog places, as it opens up schools and hospitals to their list of accepted locations to visit.

If you are dedicated to your German Shepherd training, consider getting them therapy certified. Again, this is quite specialized, but it offers many perks, as far as taking your dog places, as it opens up schools and hospitals to their list of accepted locations to visit. Chew Toys. Dogs love to chew toys such as the large variety offered by KONG from Amazon. These range from the Classic KONG toy to tires, bone-shaped toys, sticks, and balls, to name but a few. Some toys are designed to stuff with tasty treats or even peanut butter, which will keep them busy for even longer. My German Shepherd loves this tough range, and they keep her entertained for hours.

My German Shepherd Willow with some of her KONG chew toys

How to Keep German Shepherds Stimulated That Live in Small Spaces

The biggest problem for keeping a German Shepherd in a small home or apartment is stimulation, whether physical or mental. There is no doubt, you will have to do extra work to make it work. Luckily, I have some new ideas for you to try…

To keep German Shepherds stimulated that live in small spaces or apartments, there are other useful events such as barn hunts and Schutzhund that are gaining in popularity. These allow your dog to explore more of the outdoors after being indoors for a while and are great for both mental and physical stimulation.

Barn hunts are an organized sport that utilizes a dog’s natural abilities and turns them into a fun game. First, a maze and obstacle course is built out of hay bales. Aerated tubes are hidden through the maze, and pet rats are placed in the tubes. By all accounts, the rats are safe from the dogs, and the aim is for the dogs to find the rats.

There are timed events with different divisions, and even special needs dogs can often find an event to compete in. This is a wonderful activity that will stimulate your German Shepherd, no matter how little space he lives in. The Barn Hunt Association has details of upcoming events and states the following:

“Barn Hunt provides their first true opportunity for responsible breeders to test proper working traits in their dogs. Barn Hunt is also open to any dog of any breed or mix who wishes to play the game and can fit through an 18″ wide by bale-height tall tunnel.” The Barn Hunt Association

Schutzhund was developed specifically for German Shepherds in the early 1900s as a breed suitability test. It was a set of difficult and demanding tests and trials to see if the dog could show the necessary traits of a working German Shepherd.

Nowadays it is a sport and its aim is to ensure the breed retains the genetic traits for tracking, obedience, and protection. If you’re looking for a fun way to use up your German Shepherd’s natural energy, consider looking into Schutzhund.

A good place to start is The United Schutzhund Clubs of America who are an organization dedicated to the GSD by hosting shows, Schutzhund trials, and breed surveys. You can search for clubs and trainers in your area.

Do German Shepherds Need A Lot of Space?

German Shepherds need a lot of space due to their large size and high exercise needs. As an example, an ideal yard size would be 50ft x 80ft which gives them enough space to comfortably run around. However, as long as you work hard and are prepared to care for a GSD, they can be just as happy in a small space.

Having said that, apartments offer unique challenges in addition to the extra work required by you. Here are some other factors to think about:

Some apartments do not allow large dog breeds. Buying or adopting a large dog like a German Shepherd may end in heartbreak for you both if you haven’t checked your apartment complex rules first.

Additionally, since German Shepherds are so large, they will no doubt, make thumping noises on the floor when they play, jump, or run. Unless you are on the ground floor, your downstairs neighbor may not take kindly to living below a German Shepherd! It would be considerate to talk with your neighbors beforehand.

Ideally, the apartment should be next to a park or other green space where you can take your dog to relieve himself regularly throughout the day and before he settles for the night.

Boredom and barking are the other big factors. If you don’t have several hours a day to dedicate to your German Shepherd’s physical and mental needs, there is an easy solution – do not bring one to an apartment! Bored German Shepherds will bark, howl, and display poor behavior such as chewing your wooden furniture for a start.

If you need to leave your German Shepherd for more than a few hours every day, you must arrange to have a friend, relative or experienced dog walker/trainer stop by. Require that the visitor understands and complies with the training you’ve started to maintain consistency. Here’s my guilt-free guide on how long German Shepherds can be left alone where you can find loads more helpful ideas.

Keeping interesting toys and a routine will help your German Shepherd thrive even in an apartment, although it’s not an easy responsibility to have as many new dog owners have underestimated the amount of work required.

Create a Routine to Work in Any Sized Space

Because German Shepherds are so intelligent, full of energy, and strongly desire to please, keeping them to a schedule will help to keep them content.

A happy German Shepherd can be well behaved, calm, yet naturally inquisitive. A routine will, therefore, allow them to know what to expect, and when, meaning they are more likely to patiently look forward to the next activity. This will be the same no matter the size of the space your German Shepherd has.

If you work away from home, you must start the day with a brisk walk or jog for at least 45 minutes for adult dogs, less for a puppy, depending on their age.

Incorporate training into breakfast, either with a dispenser or puzzle toy or by having them practice their tricks before food. Keep interesting toys and bones available at all times.

Consider crate training, but never leave your German Shepherd in a crate for more than 3-4 hours per day, depending on his age. Arrange an experienced sitter, dog walker, or trainer to visit once or twice throughout your workday to entertain and exercise your dog. Alternatively, consider doggy daycare.

In the evening, incorporate more advanced exercise and training for your German Shepherd. Go to a class, obedience or agility, once a week or more. Add other special events to your roster every fortnight or month. Hit up a dog-friendly community event, or go hiking, swimming, or to some other special place.

Keeping your German Shepherd to a daily routine will require extra work, and there may be some level of experimentation involved to get a well-functioning system in place. Still, the benefits will far outweigh any negatives. A routine will help your German Shepherd thrive in any sized living space.

Crate Train Your German Shepherd

Crate training can work wonders, but you mustn’t leave your German Shepherd in a crate for more than 4 hours a day and even less for puppies. Ensure you thoroughly research types of crates, size, training methods, and recommended best practices before using one.

Read More: 8 Best Dog Crates for German Shepherds (and Playpens)

German Shepherds long to be with their owners and often feel sad, scared, depressed, and bored when left alone. A crate can help manage these emotions and keep your dog from turning to destructive or unsafe behaviors, especially in homes that don’t have a lot of space or a yard.

Here are some tips when considering crate training:

It is best to begin crate training young, as soon as the German Shepherd enters your home.

Begin with a large enough and comfortable crate, to ensure your German Shepherd associates the crate with a positive experience.

Keep interesting toys in the crate to keep him entertained.

Keep the crate in one place, to help your German Shepherd feel like it is “their space.”

Keep it comfortable and clean.

Let your puppy out of the crate for good behavior and use treats while training. You want to build positive associations.

The point of a crate is to keep your German Shepherd feeling safe while left alone and to minimize destructive behaviors so they can thrive in any sized living space.

Never use the crate as a punishment tool.

Other Considerations if You Live in a Small Home

There are some other considerations for you to contemplate if you live in a smaller home or apartment. Let’s take a look at these…

German Shepherds are double-coated and are known as heavy shedders as they molt all year-round. Twice a year, they will also “blow” their coat in preparation for the season ahead.

Daily grooming and vacuuming will be necessary to control the loose hairs. This is in addition to all the work required in keeping your GSD happy and healthy. It’s impossible to stop the shedding, however, there are significant ways to reduce it. Here are my 7 top tips on how to reduce shedding in German Shepherds that you will find helpful.

We have already mentioned that German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia. Because of this, when they are puppies, you will need to avoid stairs for the first few months.

If you live in an apartment complex be prepared to carry your puppy up and down the flights of stairs. I suppose this isn’t too bad though as it allows you to give your pup more cuddles! However, aging German Shepherds sometimes require a brace or surgery due to hip dysplasia, which is something to think about.

Final Thoughts

There are many opinions as to how much space is needed for a German Shepherd but the main point of this article is to help potential owners who live in small spaces be aware that they will need to put in a lot of extra work to keep their German Shepherd healthy and happy.

Here are some key takeaways from the article:

German Shepherds need at least 4000 square feet of yard space, especially if they live outside.

They are large breed dogs that require lots of exercise.

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise.

You need to ensure you can devote enough time and energy to cater for your German Shepherd’s needs.

There are numerous ways to keep German Shepherds stimulated that live in small spaces such as an apartment.

Having a daily routine will make things easier.

Crate training your German Shepherd is recommended.

Some apartments are designed specifically for pets in mind and will have handy dog parks or runs.

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Can German Shepherds Live in Apartments?

You live in an apartment and you’re considering bringing home a German Shepherd. There’s no denying the huge size and dominance of the GSD. But as active and large as these dogs are, you may be wondering if they’re capable of living a happy life in your humble abode.

So, can German Shepherds live in apartments? Yes, German Shepherds can live in apartments as long as the owner is responsible and provides the dog with the basic needs. Many German Shepherds all over the world thrive in apartments. However, keeping your GSD in an apartment without the essentials (exercise, mental stimulation, crate training, obedience and socialization training) can lead to a destructive dog.

With that said, there are things to consider when deciding whether to bring a German Shepherd to an apartment. Keeping big energetic dogs in small spaces boils down to management by the owner. Read on to learn the right way to keep a GSD in an apartment.

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German Shepherds in Apartments

The first thing you must consider is the apartment complex. Not every apartment building allows dogs, especially dogs of this size. Though an apartment may be “dog-friendly,” they may have have weight limits and age requirements.

For example, my Grandpa’s apartment complex only allows dogs under 30 pounds. Similarly, my sister’s apartment only allows dogs at least one year old.

Even though your GSD may be a small puppy, they’ll eventually grow to its adult size (in roughly one year). So, make sure to consult with your landlord or apartment company before bringing home a German Shepherd.

Don’t be surprised if you find apartments that request other requirements, such as the neutering or spaying of your German Shepherd:

My apartment is requiring me to have my dog neutered and I don’t want to do it…I have a letter from my doc saying I have PTSD. I’m against him being neutered. It’s not going to “calm him down.” I’m pretty upset they’re requiring it. – Thesupersoap33 (Reddit)

As ridiculous as it sounds, some apartment complexes will outright ban specific breeds that they deem dangerous and aggressive. These dogs include Pit Bulls, Chow Chows, Rottweilers, Dobermanns and German Shepherds.

Often times this ban is city-wide, according to the Breed-Specific Legislation. In this case, there’s very little you can do about it.

I personally think this is absurd because not all dogs are the same. The environment along with training, play a huge role in a dog’s aggressive tendencies.

Regardless of what I think, this is the reality of apartment complexes and is something you need to consider. Telling them, “but my German Shepherd isn’t aggressive like the others” probably won’t work well.

Be Honest About Your GSD

A common mistake that many owners make is being dishonest with the landlord. For example, the breed of a puppy isn’t always as obvious, especially to those who aren’t often exposed to dogs.

Some dishonest owners may claim that their German Shepherd is a Labrador Retriever or a Husky to get past a breed-specific ban.

In the end, this can create a lot of trouble for you – both legally and financially. Just take a moment and think about it. You’ll need to take your German Shepherd out all the time while living in an apartment.

That being said, there’s almost no way of deceiving your neighbors and landlord when they’ve reached physical maturity. It’s better to be honest than to live a lie.

Apartment Living: German Shepherd Basic Needs

As mentioned, German Shepherds have a lot of basic needs that need to be met if they’re going to be living in an apartment.

Don’t expect to leave your dog at home all day and think that’s okay. By doing so, you’re probably going to cause more trouble in the end.

1. Physical Exercise

German Shepherds are herding dogs with the mentality of a working dog. As such, they have a ton of excess energy that needs to be depleted on a daily basis.

The problem with apartments is the the lack of a large enclosed backyard. Without it, it’s going to be very difficult for them to exercise themselves.

If you live in an apartment and you’re busy with work or other activities, then a German Shepherd is not right for you.

Daily activity not only keeps them physically healthy, but also mentally stable. In other words, the last thing you want is a German Shepherd that’s bored out of his or her mind.

A bored German Shepherd will likely show destructive behavior in the apartment while you’re out at work.

According to the American Kennel Club, these dogs need around 2 hours of exercise a day. Sounds like a lot to you? Then you’re probably better off with another breed.

GSD Activities, Outside Apartments

There are a lot of activities that would be perfect for when it’s time to take your German Shepherd outside the small, cramped apartment.

For example, hiking is a favorite among those with active lifestyles. Not only does this keep your German Shepherd’s exercise needs in check, but it can also help the owner too (yeah, we’re talking about you!).

If your apartment complex has a pool and allows dogs, then swimming is another fantastic opportunity to work out your dog. If not, look for a nearby lake or large pond.

I tend to play fetch for 15 minutes before I leave for work. Then after work we spend 45 minutes playing fetch/chase in the yard. After dinner, he gets a good 30 minute walk. We go out in the back frequently, and we work on mental things inside and out. – Submarinepirate (Reddit)

Swimming is especially great because it can potentially work out your dog much more than it does you. German Shepherds that love swimming will easily get a great workout in an hour of dog paddling.

Playing catch with a ball or frisbee is a favorite among dog owners with all types of dogs. German Shepherds will love this and it requires a lot less effort on your part.

If you can train your dog to bring back the ball/frisbee every time, then all you need to do is throw! There are a ton of other great ideas for exercise, you just need to put in the effort and time.

2. Mental Stimulation

This is another important factor to consider if you plan to bring a German Shepherd into the apartment.

German Shepherds are some of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. And, they should be treated as such. Smart dogs need a lot of mental stimulation and German Shepherds are no exception.

In addition to a couple hours of physical exercise, I would highly suggest daily obedience training or puzzles to stimulate their minds. Obedience training is great, as these dogs are fantastic workers.

In fact, they thrive best when they have a “job” to do. Whether it’s herding or obedience training, they’ll take on the challenge. But make sure to bring plenty of dog treats!

One of the best ways to provide mental stimulation is with dog puzzles. If you provide interactive and interesting puzzles for German Shepherds, they’ll be mentally occupied for a good amount of time.

Here are some of my favorites that we bought for our dogs.

Best German Shepherd Dog Puzzles

Outward Hound Ottosson Dog Puzzle – Sturdy and durable puzzle that requires your GSD to unlock the puzzle in order to access his or her favorite treats! PAW5 Wooly Snuffle Mat – A mat with several dog-safe scents to train your GSD’s sense of smell. Place treats in the mat and let them search for snacks! CHLEBEM Interactive Dog Toy Boy – A tricky ball where you hide treats. It’s fun, interactive and keeps your GSD from boredom. Plus, it’s 100% dog safe with non-toxic rubber.

The best part about puzzles is that it takes a lot less time than physical exercise but is nearly just as important. A little puzzle can go a long with with your German Shepherd.

3. Proper Dog Crate

While in the apartment, there are a few things that you absolutely need. One of the most important and arguably your biggest one-time purchase is a dog crate. But why do you need one?

Because you don’t have a large backyard, we’re assuming your dog is living indoors (and hopefully not on your apartment balcony). So for indoor dogs, you need to housebreak them.

Dogs, by nature, don’t want to soil the place they sleep (your apartment). So, you’ll need to teach them how to control their bladder and bowel.

Crate training is not cruel for your German Shepherd. Rather, there’s a ton of great benefits that come from crate training. For example, it can teach your dog how to be comfortable in an enclosed space.

Now I’m not telling you to leave your dog in a crate and go to work for 8 hours. That would cause more anxiety and stress than necessary.

Make sure you don’t leave your German Shepherd in the crate for more than 6 hours at a time, especially if they’re puppies.

Best Dog Crates for German Shepherds

There are a lot of fantastic dog crates on the market. But after reviewing and trying dozens, we’ve narrowed it down to a few that’ll work best with German Shepherds – both in apartments and houses.

Midwest Homes iCrate – This is the best dog crate, hands down. It has all the features you need and want, plus more! There’s a reason why thousand of happy customers have given it such a high rating. AmazonBasics Dog Crate – If Amazon puts their name on it, you can bet this is an excellent dog crate. It’s very similar to the Midwest Homes and is our second pick for GSD dog crates. New World Metal Dog Crate – Though it lacks some minor features of the first two, it’s a well-crafted dog crate at a very reasonable price. Perfect, if you want to save a little.

Note: Always buy a dog crate for the full adult size of your dog breed. In this case, you’ll need a 48 inch dog crate.

Why We Love These Crates

Considering limited space in an apartment, you can probably get away with a 42 inch for a female or smaller German Shepherd.

We picked these dog crates for a number of reasons. The first is that they all come with a divider panel as an option or standard.

Divider panels are necessary because your a German Shepherd grows very quickly. When they’re puppies, it doesn’t make sense to have so much space in a crate.

So with a divider, you’re able to adjust the living space of the crate according to his or her growth.

Another reason why we love these crates is because of they’re foldable. Since most apartments are relatively small, you want to be able to collapse these large crates into a compact carrier for storage or transportation.

4. Proper Obedience Training

We already know obedience training is great for mental stimulation, which is absolutely necessary for big dogs living in small apartments. However, obedience training is crucial for another reason.

German Shepherds are not quiet dogs. As a matter of fact, they will bark if they perceive danger. When you’re so close to your neighbors, you can expect sounds coming from all directions at all hours of the day.

An untrained German Shepherd will most likely bark at these sounds, causing problems with those around you. For this reason, it’s very important you teach your German Shepherd how to have “manners.”

If you’re lucky enough to find a dog-friendly apartment for your GSD, there’s a decent chance your apartment neighbors have dogs as well.

I’ve been in a situation where another dog barks and essentially sets off a barking chain reaction of all the dogs in the complex. Plus, my Corgi goes into a barking frenzy. Sound familiar?

The best way of avoiding a “bark-off” is through obedience training. Keep them in check by teaching them “quiet” is good! Always use positive reinforcement with your German Shepherd. If you can, try not to yell at them.

If they start barking, you should ignore them. The second they stop, give them high praise and even reward them with a treat. It takes a lot of patience, but it’s well worth the effort in the long run.

5. Socialization

Living in a dog-friendly apartment means that there will be other dogs around – probably all the time. When it’s time to take your German Shepherd out for a walk, you may even come across a few other dogs.

For this reason, it’s important that your GSD gets a ton of socialization early on. They need to be frequently exposed to other dogs and people to learn that they’re “good” and not threats.

I think its best to heavily socialize German Shepherds with everyone and everything. They’ll be less afraid of the world and bark less at the “unknown” in my opinion. – Tony L. (GSD owner)

German Shepherds are large dogs and without proper socialization, they can seriously hurt and injure a smaller dog. You’ll want to avoid this at all cost.

Socialization can come in many forms. While they’re still small, make every opportunity for dog playdates. If you don’t have friends with dogs, no problem!

You can bring them to dog parks on the weekends to play with other dogs. Socializing at an early age makes them less intimidating to others dogs and people.

If you have some money to spare, it’s not a bad idea to take them to a doggy day care, especially when you’re at work.

This provides them with more opportunities for exercise, but also helps with socializing. At doggy day cares, your dog will be exposed to all kinds of dogs and people – it’s perfect!

Problems with GSD in Apartments

If you don’t provide your German Shepherd with these 5 basic needs while living at an apartment, you may be in for a rollercoaster ride. And, I’m not talking about the fun kind.

A lack of mental and physical stimulation means that your German Shepherd will take it into their own hands to receive these basic needs. Destructive behavior may occur without these key necessities.

This means that your favorite pair of shoe may be torn apart by the time you come home. Or, it could mean that your couch will be ripped open after a long exhausting day of work.

None of these scenarios is something you’d want, but it happens a lot with many neglectful apartment dwellers.

Apartment living with German Shepherds is no easy task. However, they’re highly capable of thriving in such a living environment. It’s really up to you to provide them with a way to make the best out of the situation.

Some owners even say they’re some of the best apartment dogs despite their energetic temperaments and size.

However, not all German Shepherds are the same. Some will take a little more work while others fit right in. It’s up to you (the owner) to create the best space and life for them.

Are there other tips you have to making apartment life work with a German Shepherd? Leave a tip in the comment section below to let us know! Also, if you have any questions, feel free to ask away.

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German Shepherd

We find out some interesting German Shepherd facts, including the breed’s personality traits and interesting history.

Facts

Personality: Devoted and loyal to the core, the German Shepherd loves being part of the family and makes a wonderful companion.

Suitability: People who love spending time with their dog/s, and allow their dog/s inside the home as part of the family. The breed enjoys the company of children but like all breeds, they need to be supervised in the company of young children, especially considering their size.

Favourite Activities: The German Shepherd is great at many doggy sports and loves to have fun. Their favourite activity is spending time with their pack YOU! whether that be lying in front of the Tele, playing ball in the yard or running around the park. Whatever you are doing they want to do, too!

Watchdog Qualities: German Sheps make great guard dogs and have been used by many security organisations for this very reason. Due to their natural guarding instincts they are often used to protect property. They will certainly alert you to strangers and protect their loved ones.

Backyard Requirements: German Shepherds need regular mental and physical stimulation to stay happy. If left alone for long periods of time in a backyard they will become bored, destructive and noisy. Always leave plenty of dog-friendly chew toys or a large marrow bone at home when you are away, and practise good boredom busters (check out an issue of Dogs Life Magazine for more information on boredom.) They will live quite happily in a small to medium sized yard as long as they received the correct daily exercise.

With its noble look and natural athletic build, the German Shepherd Dog almost demands respect. Ask anyone in the company of this dignified breed and they’ll admit you cannot help but be impressed by this dogs remarkable presence.

While the German Shepherd Dog can sometimes intimidate with something as insignificant as a self-confident stare, a well-bred dog of sound temperament will prove to be not only the perfect companion, but the ideal working dog. In fact, this breed has been assisting man as far back as the 1800s when, as a working shepherd dog, it would herd sheep and keep stragglers from straying while the shepherd rested, knowing his sheep were in the best of hands.

Many people mistakenly believe the GSD was bred to be a guard dog. In fact, it was originally bred as a working/herding animal and belongs to the Working Group of dogs. Its this sort of work to which it is best suited and those who want a GSD for the sole purpose of standing sentinel outside to guard home and property are barking up the wrong tree. It is widely agreed that, as with all breeds, aggression in a GSD will be the result of poor breeding, bad or cruel handling and inappropriate or no training and socialisation. According to the experts, this breed craves human company and should not be left alone outside. Because of its herding instincts it needs to be part of a family which it can love and watch over, with supreme loyalty and dedication.

South Australian German Shepherd Dog breeder Andrew Hueppauff, first vice president of the German Shepherd Dog Club of South Australia, stresses this breed should not be bought simply to serve as a guard dog. Buy it to be part of the family, he emphasises. I have six pet GSDs, which are also our showing and breeding animals and they stay together in our yard. But when its cold outside they’re in the house with us. They are part of the family.

German Shepherd Dog breeder Lyn Gregor, whose dogs share her home on the New South Wales North Coast, agrees that this breed goes far beyond being a guard dog.

This dog is the perfect companion, she says. I have kept GSDs for about 20 years and have never known another breed that is more tuned in to people. This is a real dog and very much a people dog, completely in synch with its owner. They can read your moods.

In most states, it is now against the law to use German Shepherd Dogs for the sole purpose of guarding property. Thankfully, the days of GSDs and other guard dogs running up and down fences in the dead of night fulfilling their guarding duties are a thing of the past.

The one aspect most GSD experts agree on as possibly the breeds most popular attribute is its amazing versatility. While this dog can be the consummate playmate, its also able to do obedience, tracking and agility, as well as learn to be part of the police or lead blind people. Today, the breed is a prime player in detecting drugs and contraband, in search and rescue and in the military. As one GSD owner says, Throw anything in the way of this dog and it can do it. And in every domain it gets involved in, the German Shepherd Dog is revered for its intelligence, loyalty and courage.

But training must go hand in hand with this dogs incredible abilities, and breeders are unanimous that early obedience training is of the utmost importance in the development of all GSD pups. They have such a strong protective instinct that extensive socialisation at a young age will prevent over-protection in adult dogs.

Breeder Andrew Hueppauff recommends beginning socialisation as early as eight weeks and obedience work from 12 weeks of age. The important thing is how a dog is brought up, he says, and the way its treated at home. Start training your German Shepherd Dog as early as possible.

The GSD standard states the breed should be suitable as an all-round working, herding and service dog, but to fulfill these functions the dog needs to be of well-balanced temperament, steady of nerve, self-assured, absolutely free and easy and (unless provoked), completely good-natured as well as alert and tractable. All experts agree that early obedience training is the only way this breed can realise these goals. But while obedience training is imperative for the development of an acceptable temperament and socialisation skills, its also a stimulating and exciting pastime for this incredibly intelligent dog.

Peter Comatas is the publicity officer for the Victorian German Shepherd Dog Club and as liaison officer for the club, works closely with a number of service organisations. Peter is passionate about this breed and stresses the importance of providing German Shepherds with enough stimulation and exercise to satisfy their intelligence. He states emphatically that if you’re not prepared to provide this all-important aspect of a GSDs life, don’t buy one.

Peter also suggests that GSD owners consider entering their dogs in conformation and obedience competitions. GSDs enjoy physical exercise and their owners must be prepared to exercise them regularly, he states. A German Shepherd Dog is most happy when it has a task in life.

This breed is an excellent family dog and grows very attached to all members of the household. It is particularly good with children in the family. These dogs are easy to care for, needing a bath only once or twice a year so the oils in their skin are not depleted. Show dogs naturally need a bath before each show. Grooming can be limited to once a week but this breed does shed if its a problem, a quick brush once a day can reduce little hairs littering carpets and furniture.

German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from inherited problems which include hip and elbow dysplasia and haemophilia, so buying from a reputable breeder is paramount.

Puppies are generally not hip and elbow scored until 12 months of age so if buying a dog not yet one year old insist the pup is from hip- and elbow-scored parents. You should also ask to see a breed classification from your breeder.

The German Shepherd Dog Council of Australia, to which all state German Shepherd Dog Councils are affiliated, runs a Breed Survey Scheme to assess the health and temperament of German Shepherd Dogs nationwide, providing breed survey classifications to each dog brought along by its breeder. See the box on page 48 for more information.

The German Shepherd Dog League of New South Wales points out that the GSD has the largest number of canine registrations, reflecting the breeds popularity and usefulness. And although the GSD is used as a working dog in the army and other government services, the Leagues publicity manual says by far the largest numbers are owned by German Shepherd Dog enthusiasts as beloved family pets.

Val Moody, Secretary of the Victorian German Shepherd Dog Club, is a die-hard German Shepherd Dog enthusiast.

This has to be one of the most popular dogs around, she states.

And once you have owned one, they simply get into your blood. They are superb.

Origin

The German Shepherd Dogs ancestors were a diverse group of sheepdogs found in Germany in the late 1800s. A German cavalry captain named Max von Stephanitz known as the father of the breed had noticed the talents of these dogs and in 1899 began the first German Shepherd Dog Club of Germany. A German Shepherd Dog he recently bought became the first registered dog in the club.

The GSD grew in popularity and was reportedly being imported into Australia as early as 1904. While still used as a working and herding dog in Germany, the German Shepherd Dog began to be used in police and military forces in that country and played a major role in the German army during World War I.

World War II saw the breed fall out of favour around the world but a few years after the war ended, the dogs popularity once again surged.

In 1972 the Australian government ended a 44-year ban on the importation of German Shepherd Dogs into the country and this pooch has since gone on to become possibly the most popular breed in Australia, fulfilling vital roles in police, security and military units as well as serving as a trusted companion in thousands of Australian homes.

Due to the availability of overseas bloodlines and therefore an increase in genetic material, the breed today is much improved.

Breed Care

Daily: The German Shepherd enjoys daily exercise and needs a balanced diet which includes vegetables and meat, raw meaty bones and fresh water. Always leave at least half an hour or more between meals and exercise. Remember not to over-exercise your young Shep, to prevent joint problems.

Weekly: A brush once a week, more often when shedding will help keep the coat in tip-top shape.

Monthly: Ear cleaning and nail trimming. Heartworm and flea treatments.

Regular: Bath when necessary. Annual vaccinations.

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